Ecstasy

What is Ecstasy

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine), popularly known as ecstasy or, more recently, as Molly, is a synthetic, psychoactive drug that has similarities to both the stimulant amphetamine and the hallucinogen mescaline. It produces feelings of increased energy, euphoria, emotional warmth and empathy toward others, and distortions in sensory and time perception.

Alabama Law –

13A-12-211

Unlawful distribution of controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

(a) A person commits the crime of unlawful distribution of controlled substances if, except as otherwise authorized, he or she sells, furnishes, gives away, delivers, or distributes a controlled substance enumerated in Schedules I through V.

(c) A person commits the crime of unlawful possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance if, except as otherwise authorized by law, he or she knowingly possesses any of the following quantities of a controlled substance:

(1) More than eight grams, but less than 28 grams, of cocaine or of any mixture containing cocaine.

(2) More than two grams, but less than four grams, of any morphine, opium, or any salt, isomer, or salt of an isomer thereof, including heroin.

(3) More than eight grams, but less than 28 grams, of 3,4-methylenedioxy amphetamine, or of any mixture containing 3,4-methylenedioxy amphetamine.

(4) More than eight grams, but less than 28 grams, of 5-methoxy-3, 4-methylenedioxy amphetamine, or of any mixture containing 5-methoxy-3, 4-methylenedioxy amphetamine.

(5) More than eight grams, but less than 28 grams, of amphetamine or any mixture containing amphetamine, its salt, optical isomer, or salt of its optical isomer thereof.

(6) More than eight grams, but less than 28 grams, of methamphetamine or any mixture containing methamphetamine, its salts, optical isomers, or salt of its optical isomers thereof.

(d) Unlawful possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance is a Class B felony.

Ecstasy, which is also known as MDMA, is an illegal drug that can pose plenty of health problems and dangers for people who use it. While the short-term risks of ecstasy abuse can be serious, the negative long term effects of the drug are often more troubling and can wreak considerable havoc on drug users’ lives.

Even though many people understand that drug abuse is dangerous, they may not realize just how many aspects of a person’s life can be negatively affected and even destroyed by long-term ecstasy use. The following issues can result from ecstasy abuse and addiction that takes place over the years.

Signs of Ecstasy use?

The more you use ecstasy, the harder your neurons have to work to produce and distribute serotonin. Over time, the neurons get worn out, and users have to take higher and higher doses of ecstasy to obtain the same results. As tolerance builds, addiction may take place.

Studies of ecstasy users find that as many as 43 percent meet criteria for dependency, while another 34 percent could be classified as abusers. Almost 60 percent of users experienced withdrawal symptoms.

Though every individual is different, signs of ecstasy addition may include:

More and more frequent use

Continued use of the drug, even with knowledge that it’s harming you physically or mentally

Increased tolerance, or needed to use more of the drug to feel the same effects

Thinking about taking the drug or how to get the drug

Spending money you don’t have to buy the drug

Missing class or work or failing to meet responsibilities due to ecstasy use

Seeking out new friends who are using or avoiding friends who don’t use

Feeling unhappy when you’re not using the drug

In addition to the inherent risks of ecstasy use, the high likelihood that a dose is tainted with other drugs increases ecstasy’s potential for addiction.